Bucks Secure Win Over Warriors Without Giannis Amid Strong Season Start

The 2025-26 NBA season has seen some surprising developments early on, particularly with the Milwaukee Bucks who, despite losing key players and a late injury to star Giannis Antetokounmpo, have started strong with a 4-1 record. Giannis himself is having an MVP-caliber season, averaging impressive stats, though his health remains a concern. The Bucks demonstrated resilience by defeating the Golden State Warriors 120-110 without Giannis, largely due to the breakout performance of Ryan Rollins, who scored a career-high 32 points, as well as strong bench contributions and effective three-point shooting from players like AJ Green and Myles Turner. Coach Doc Rivers praised the team's adaptability and composure in the face of Giannis's late scratch before the game. Meanwhile, analysts are also bullish on teams like the Philadelphia 76ers and San Antonio Spurs for division titles and the NBA championship, respectively, while the Warriors are seen as a veteran team that could be a postseason threat if they build chemistry. Overall, the Bucks' combination of Giannis's dominance, strategic supporting shooters, and emerging role players is making them a formidable contender this season.